Federal Minister for Privatisation Abdul Aleem Khan has affirmed that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will not be sold at a low price despite its financial difficulties. Speaking on the necessity of the airline’s sale, Khan emphasized that it must be sold at a respectable price as determined by the Privatisation Commission.

Addressing PIA’s financial woes, Khan noted that the airline’s debt stands at Rs. 830 billion, with Rs. 600 billion transferred to a holding company and Rs. 200 billion remaining on PIA’s books. He clarified that these financial arrangements were made before he took office and that his responsibilities do not include restructuring the airline or deviating from the established framework.

Khan also extended an invitation to the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh to purchase PIA, provided they meet the valuation criteria set by the commission.

In addition to discussing PIA, the minister touched on other privatization initiatives, including plans to privatize nine power distribution companies (DISCOs). In the transportation sector, he projected an increase in revenue for the National Highway Authority (NHA) from Rs. 64 billion to Rs. 110 billion this year, with a target of Rs. 500 billion over the next five years.

Khan also highlighted recent efforts to enhance fiscal responsibility, such as the termination of 3,500 jobs at Pakistan Post, a move that saved Rs. 2.8 billion in expenditures.